May 14 to May 20 Overview

We finished reading and listening to "Everyday Use" last week, and we talked about cultural identity/heritage. You filled in the four-square chart, and many of you talked to family members about your family history.

This week you will
  • Finish the class discussion of the story by Pulitzer Prize winning author Alice Walker
  • Use researching and writing skills to write a feature about one aspect of your cultural identity/heritage
  • Use technology to create a project which will showcase your heritage
  • Finish reading your novel (independent reading project) and turn in the timeline by Thursday, May 18 at the beginning of class
  • Write your book review in class on Friday, May 20

Monday, May 16, 2011
1. Bellringer: Write an alternative ending to "Everyday Use" in which Mrs. Johnson (Momma) gives the quilts to Dee (not Maggie.) Use Alice Walker's technique of using Momma as the narrator, and use description and dialogue so the reader can understand why Momma would ultimately choose to give Dee the quilts. (10 or more lines)
2. We took a few notes about conflict. There is a notetaking graphic organizer.
3. We also thought about the t-charts we made last week (Dee/Maggie.) We noted how Alice Walker used the sisters conflicts to demonstrate the theme of our story. Through plot and the resolution of conflict, we learn theme.
4. We also worked in small groups and made a list of conflicts in "Everyday Use" (Nature of the conflict, type of conflict (external or internal) and the resolution (if there is a resolution.)
5. Start thinking about what you would write in a letter to a 16-year old grandchild (way in the future!)
6. We passed out progress reports! There are only 8 more opportunities to come in during activity periods or until 3:30 to finish work. We are always here until 3:00 p.m..

Tuesday, May 17, 2011




Feature article about quilters in Centre County (State College)


2a Everyday Use by Alice Walker - Cultural Identity (Heritage) Links



You'll turn in either the work you've done on your article or a 5 line description of where you are in the research process.


Wednesday
You should be finished reading your novels by today. (The timelines are due tomorrow at the beginning of class.)
You'll continue working on the article. You'll turn in the rough draft of your article for points.

Thursday
Turn in the timelines from your books at the beginning of class.
We'll revise and edit the articles. You'll turn in the final draft of the article by the end of class today.

Friday
You'll write the book review.in class.